According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol the accident happened at 1:15 p.m. on Missouri 79, south of Route D.

A 1978 Jeep was being driven south by 69-year-old Donnie L. Branham of Louisiana, Mo. When the vehicle crossed the center line, Branham over-corrected, and the Jeep traveled off the right side of the road where it began to skid. The Jeep then traveled off the left side of the road where it struck a tree.

Injured was a passenger, 59-year-old Rhonda J. Branham of Louisiana, Mo., who was not wearing a safety device. She was transported by ambulance to Hannibal Regional Hospital.